Update: Binkley’s is now closed
Looking for a phenomenal dining experience in Scottsdale, Arizona? Scottsdale is home to many, many excellent restaurants. One of the area’s standouts is not actually located in Scottsdale, but just north of Scottsdale in Cave Creek.
Tucked away in a nondescript, small shopping center in the heart of Cave Creek, Binkley’s is one of our absolute favorites. It serves some of the best, most creative food we have tasted and we try to get there as often as possible.
Binkley’s is headed by Kevin Binkley who honed his skills in restaurants like the French Laundry and The Inn at Little Washington. He brings this high-profile talent to everything he and his team prepare at Binkley’s. The creations that come out of the kitchen are astounding visually and the taste and smell live up to the visual imagery. (Click to see examples of Binkley’s dishes.)
Diners have the choice of ordering a la carte or they can order from a series of tasting menus that start with four courses and go up to six courses. We have always done the tasting menu as it allows us to try as many of the culinary creations as possible. Along the way, diners are treated to a series of amuse bouche that are playful and delicious at the same time. The menu changes daily based on seasonal availability of the ingredients, so every visit is a new food experience.
The most memorable dish we have had was the white truffle risotto. Huge slices of white truffle were shaved into a mouthwatering risotto. This particular dish was on the menu for a short period of time so we ended up making a return trip just for the risotto.
If you are interested in wine, you can do wine pairings chosen by the sommelier who is very creative and knowledgeable in his selections. He is also very happy to talk about the particular wines and their history if you ask.
The dining experience usually takes a couple of hours. However, if you are looking for a less formal meal, they do serve dinner in the bar area. Every time we have been there, we have found the service to be professional and friendly.
Overall, this is one of our top picks for dining in and around Scottsdale.If you have an opportunity to visit Binkley’s, we highly recommend it.
More Information:
Binkley’s Restaurant
6920 East Cave Creek Road,
Cave Creek, Arizona 85331
(480) 437-1072
Binkley’s Website
– Open Tuesday through Saturday for Dinner – 5:00 – 9:30pm
– Check for summer hours